Military Travel: Dauphine Orleans Hotel…New Orleans, LA

We packed the van, with two close friends, and embarked on a business road trip to New Orleans without the kids and three nights of uninterrupted sleep. Yes, please!

For our first visit as a couple, we wanted to avoid visiting the city during festival times and have total freedom to roam the streets of the “Big Easy” unbothered without congestion and take advantage of all the fabulous things this charming city has to offer. We quickly learned a normal week in New Orleans is anything but normal.

 All of my traveling buddies suggested newbies to New Orleans should plan to spend their time in the French Quarter, better known as The Quarter, among other areas. Locals and tourists alike swoon over The Quarter for its charm, beautiful architecture and highly eclectic retail stores. We heeded that advice and set our hearts on staying in the original settlement of New Orleans.

 

Our three day getaway at the boutique Dauphine Orleans Hotel was quiet, quaint and convenient. The hotel is nestled in the architectural elements of New Orleans’ most historic neighborhood, and only one block away from the bustle of Bourbon Street. The Dauphine is close enough to walk and enjoy the nightlife but far enough not to still hear the party when you’re ready to turn in for the night.

We were welcomed to the Dauphine Orleans Hotel with a complimentary welcome beverage at the bar, May Baily’s Place, which was once one of the better-known bordellos as part of the red-light district in the former Storyville district of New Orleans.

The courtyard greets you with a saltwater pool edged with relaxing palm trees that provide an iconic, aesthetic touch of nature in a resort-like environment. Other complimentary amenities include Wi–Fi access and deluxe continental breakfast in the historic Audubon Room equipped with a make-your-own waffle station, sausage, scrambled eggs, croissants, bagels and boxed cereal, yogurt, fruit and an assortment of beverages. There’s also secure valet parking on the property, one of the few private on-site parking garages in the French Quarter. It was convenient not to need the vehicle once parked to get around.

The rigorous demand of the military life doesn’t always leave time for us to sneak away together. This trip was the perfect work/play getaway.  The New Orleans Hotel Collection shows appreciation for military travelers with special rates at its seven properties, to include the Dauphine Orleans Hotel.  All active duty and retired military personnel qualify for the discount. Make a hotel booking online using the “Military” promo code or call the property of your choice and ask for the military rate. All you need to do is present an official military identification card at the time of check-in, and you’re all set. Learn more about the New Orleans Hotel Collection here.